THE METHODIST CONFERENCE.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 541, 12 February 1913, Page 4

THE METHODIST CONFERENCE.

The conference at present being held in Wellington marks a very important epoch in the history of tho churches in New Zealand ior not only is it the first conference since the separation of the Methodist Church of New Zealnad from Australasia, but it ) also marks the union of the two branches of Methodism in New Zealand, viz:. The Mehodist Church and the Primitive Methodist Church. There is no doubt that this union should have been consummated long since, for there is practically no essential difference between the doctrines and church government of both churches However, "better late than never," and this union is but in keeping with the spirit of the times. The deed of union was signed in the Wellington Town Hall on Thursday oven- I ing last, by the Revs. S. Lawry (pre- j sident); C. H. L»wb, 8.A., eecre- 1 tary; W. Ready, ex-president; W. if* Gittos, on behalf of the Maori race; and Mr J. Flesher, representing the Methodist Church, and by Hon. C. M. Luke, vice-president; Rovs. C. E. Ward, G. Knowles Smith, and Mr C. E. Bellringer, on behalf of the Primitive Methodist Church. His Excellency thd Governor and several , others witnessed tho signing of the deed. Brilliant addresses wore delivered by Hia Excellency, the Rev. S. Lawry, Hon. C. M. Luke, M.L.C., and the Revs. Drß Youngman and Morley from Australia. The combined church thua commenced its existence, and by a steady adherence to the principles of Methodism, will justify tho same. An address of welcome and loyalty was presented to His Ex ■ cellency the Governor signed by the president, vice-president and secretary. The ordinary business of the conference is now proceeding, the claims of To Kuiti being looked after by Mr M. H. Wilton.